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New Zealand urges Russia to help keep ceasefire in Ukraine

Xinhua, February 16, 2015 Adjust font size:

The New Zealand government Monday called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to continue to use his influence to ensure that all separatist groups involved in the conflict in eastern Ukraine fully observed the ceasefire.

"The ceasefire generally seems to be holding, however, there are troubling reports of continued fighting in Debaltseve," Foreign Minister Murray McCully said in a statement.

"While it is still early days, the ceasefire provides a glimmer of hope after months of intensifying conflict, growing hostilities and a worsening humanitarian situation," said McCully.

"All parties must now follow through on their commitments and refrain from further violence."

He said New Zealand had consistently called for an end to the conflict in eastern Ukraine, including in the United Nations Security Council, where New Zealand currently holds a non- permanent seat. Endi